Victor Perton

The Case for Optimism Victor Perton

At its simplest, optimism is a general expectation that good things will happen. According to recent Harvard health research, optimism may help you live longer. Optimism will help you function better as a leader. Writing about "The Case for Optimism: The Optimists Voices," Helen Clark, former New Zealand Prime Minister and Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme says, "Good things happen when good people get together in common cause. More than 200 people have shared their wisdom and insights in this book 'The Case for Optimism.' Their views are fresh and sparkle off the pages which follow. Most will inspire, some will amuse and others look to improve the current state of global leadership. Certainly, this is excellent thought-provoking material to share in conversations and speeches for adults and children alike." Some quotes from the book: Professor Erwin Loh, Chief Medical Officer, Monash Health: "Be an optimist, and be relentless in pursuing the beacon of hope, so that you are always moving towards the light that will guide you, shine on you, and keep the shadows of darkness and despair behind you." Dominic Barton, Global Managing Director, McKinsey "Optimism is at the very core of leadership. The best leaders I have encountered in my career are those that remain optimistic -- and ambitious -- for their organisations even in the face of great adversity. They are those whose optimism enables them to recognise the potential in others, and help them develop to be leaders themselves." Paul Polman, CEO of Unilever: "The future lies in the hands of the younger generation and that gives me huge cause for optimism. Andrew Liveris, Chairman and CEO, The Dow Chemical Company: "I remain as optimistic as ever. Today's world is abundant with opportunity to collaborate in new ways, creating positive change and solutions that protect the planet and provide hope to millions of people who feel that the world has forgotten them." Lilia Perton, Yogi: "Daily practice of yoga and meditation are ways of achieving an optimistic mindset and presence. We can light up the room and light up the lives of people around us with a positive manner, mode of speech and a smile"